Modular construction systems

ABSTRACT

A modular construction system includes a top molding member; a bottom molding member; and at least one stanchion spacing the top molding member from the bottom molding member, the stanchion being removably attached to the top and bottom molding member. Other construction systems include removable panels that are coupled with frame pieces to collectively form a stair rail system, molding systems, backsplash systems, and other building components.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to pending U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 62/434,875, filed Dec. 15, 2016 and which is incorporated byreference in its entirety herewith.

BACKGROUND

Homeowners, builders, apartment owners and landlords, etc. frequentlywant to provide high-end fixtures within the living space. For example,crown molding can be utilized to enhance the look and feel of a room bybeautifying the junction between the wall and the ceiling. At the baseof the floor, floor molding may beautify the junction between the walland the floor. The corners of walls may be “bull-nose” (i.e. rounded) toprovide characteristic and charm to the room. High-end furniture andcabinetry may be added, with intricate details such as wrought iron.These high-end features often are difficult to install and must betailored (i.e., custom made) for a specific installation. Therefore,typical homeowners with little to no carpentry or iron workingexperience are unable to install such high-end features. Moreover, onceinstalled, these fixtures are unchanging in that they are singularcomponents that must be removed and reinstalled to change the look ofthe living space.

SUMMARY

In a first aspect, a modular crown molding system includes a top moldingmember; a bottom molding member; and at least one stanchion spacing thetop molding member from the bottom molding member, the stanchion beingremovably attached to the top and bottom molding member.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the top molding member includes asubstantially planar top surface and substantially planar bottomsurface, the top surface configured for attachment to a ceiling within aroom.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the at least one stanchion includesa first square edge configured for attachment to a bottom surface of thetop molding member, and an angled edge configured for attachment to aninner surface of the bottom molding member such that the bottom moldingmember is angled with respect to the top molding member when coupled tothe stanchion.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the at least one stanchion includesa second square edge adjacent to the angled edge such that there is agap between the bottom molding member and the at least one stanchion.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the modular crown molding systemincludes a lighting strip oriented along the longitudinal directionwithin the gap.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the at least one stanchion is aplurality of stanchions equally spaced in a longitudinal direction alongthe top and bottom molding members forms a gap between two adjacentstanchions.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the modular crown molding systemincludes one or more of: (i) a transformer adapted to couple to powerwiring of the structure the system is to be installed in, (ii) abattery, (iii) a speaker, (iv) a motion sensor, (v) lighting, (vi) awireless controller, and (vii) speaker wiring, located in the gap.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the wireless controller is adaptedto receive input from a remote device for controlling one or more of thelighting and the speaker.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the motion sensor is adapted tocontrol one or more of the speaker and the lighting based upon senseddata from the motion sensor.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the modular crown molding systemincludes a panel located in a space between an upper surface of thebottom molding member and a bottom surface of the top molding member.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the at least one stanchion includesan attachment location for attaching the panel thereto.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the panel is a planar panel.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the panel is a decorative panel.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the panel is a rail panel; themodular crown molding system further includes a plurality of rail panelinserts that are capable of coupling together along the length of therail panel and securable by top and bottom rails of the rail panel.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the rail panel inserts areelectronic display panels including connection inserts for physicallyand/or electronically connecting multiple of the rail panel insertstogether.

In embodiments of the first aspect, the modular crown molding systemincludes a bull-nose corner cover capable of covering a gap between twoadjacent bottom molding members and a rounded corner of a wall to whichthe system is installed at.

In a second aspect, a modular construction system includes: a woodenframe including a top, bottom, and two side frame pieces coupledtogether via corner frame pieces, the frame pieces each including aU-channel aligned with the U-channel of adjacent frame pieces; and, aresin panel inserted within the U-channel of the wooden frame.

In embodiments of the second aspect, at least one of the frame piecesincludes electrical contacts for coupling with a separate electricalcontact to power at least one electronic device located on an interiorsurface of the frame piece.

In embodiments of the second aspect, the modular construction systemincludes three additional wooden frames with three additional panelsinserted respectively therein coupled to the wooden frame therebycreating a box; and a lid attached to the box; and leg pieces at anopposite side of the box from the lid.

In embodiments of the second aspect, the modular construction systemincludes a door surrounding the wooden frame such that the wooden frameis inset within a cutout portion of the door.

In a third aspect, a modular stair rail system includes at least twobalusters spaced apart from one another; a frame including a top framepiece, a bottom frame piece, and two side pieces each attached to one ofthe at least two balusters, each frame piece including a U-shapedchannel; a panel inserted within the U-shaped channel; and, a balustercover covering at least one of the balusters covering the attachmentlocation of the side piece to the baluster.

In embodiments of the third aspect, the panel is a planar panel.

In embodiments of the third aspect, the panel is a decorative panel.

In embodiments of the third aspect, the panel is a rail panel.

In embodiments of the third aspect, the modular stair rail systemincludes a panel support attached to the bottom frame piece.

In embodiments of the third aspect, the baluster cover includes a firstside and a second side, each being semicircular, and a baluster fillpiece located in a gap between the first side and the second side.

In embodiments of the third aspect, the modular stair rail systemincludes a rail trim component between a rail and the top frame piece;the rail trim component including a bottom trim frame having a pluralityof spaced stanchions coupling the bottom trim frame to the rail.

In embodiments of the third aspect, each of the spaced stanchionsincluding a hole therein such that wiring and/or electronics can passthrough the stanchions.

In embodiments of the third aspect, the rail trim component including apanel on one or both sides of the stanchions.

In a fourth aspect, a modular backsplash system includes a bottom frameincluding a plurality of attachment locations for securing the bottomframe to a wall; a top frame; a removable panel attached to the bottomframe via the plurality of attachment locations.

In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the bottom frame further includes aplurality of support bars supporting the panel on the bottom frame.

In embodiments of the fourth aspect, the support bars form a gap betweenthe panel and a back surface of the bottom frame member such thatelectronics fit therein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The foregoing and other features and advantages of the disclosure willbe apparent from the more particular description of the embodiments, asillustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like referencecharacters refer to the same parts throughout the different figures. Thedrawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placedupon illustrating the principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 1 depicts an exploded view of an exemplary modular crown moldingsystem, in embodiments.

FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary cross section of the modular crown moldingsystem of FIG. 1, showing the wireless controller, transformer, andlighting strip, in embodiments.

FIG. 3 depicts another exemplary cross section of the modular crownmolding system of FIG. 1, showing the battery holder and lighting/wiringclips, in embodiments.

FIG. 4 depicts another exemplary cross section of the modular crownmolding system of FIG. 1, showing the amplifier and speaker, inembodiments.

FIG. 5 depicts another exemplary cross section of the modular crownmolding system of FIG. 1, showing a molding shaped panel in embodiments.

FIG. 6 depicts another exemplary cross section of the modular crownmolding system of FIG. 1, showing a rail panel with LED rail panelinserts, in embodiments.

FIG. 7 depicts an exemplary speaker insert, in embodiments.

FIG. 8 depicts a prior art system of installing floor molding on arounded, bull-nose, and wall corner.

FIG. 9 depicts a bull-nose molding cover that simplifies installation ofmolding at a bull-nose cornered wall and beautifies the junction at thefloor molding, in embodiments.

FIG. 10 depicts the bull-nose molding cover of FIG. 9, installed at thefloor molding.

FIG. 11 depicts the bull-nose molding cover spaced from a crown molding.

FIG. 12 depicts the bull-nose molding cover installed at the crownmolding of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 depicts an exemplary modular construction system, inembodiments.

FIG. 14, for example, depicts a trash bin formed by joining multipleframes of the modular construction system of FIG. 13 together.

FIG. 15 depicts a modular door system including the modular constructionsystem of FIG. 13 in use with a door, in embodiments.

FIG. 16 depicts a modular window sconce system including the modularconstruction system of FIG. 13 forming a window sconce for window, inembodiments.

FIG. 17 depicts a modular entryway surround system, including themodular construction system of FIG. 13 forming a surround for entryway,in embodiments.

FIG. 18 depicts a modular mantel system, including the modularconstruction system of FIG. 13 forming a mantel for a fireplace, inembodiments.

FIG. 19 depicts a modular stair rail system, including the modularconstruction system of FIG. 13 forming stair rail panels for stairs, inembodiments.

FIG. 20 depicts an exploded view of the modular construction system ofFIG. 13 in use with modular stair rail system of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 depicts an exploded view of the baluster cover within themodular stair rail system of FIG. 19, in an embodiment.

FIG. 22 shows an exploded view of components of rail trim component ofFIG. 19, in embodiments.

FIG. 23 depicts an additional modular construction system in the form ofa modular backsplash system, in embodiments.

FIG. 24 depicts an additional modular construction system in the form ofa modular electrical system, in embodiments.

FIG. 25 depicts an example corner connection system which may be used tocouple framing pieces together, in embodiments.

FIG. 26 depicts an example frame connection system which may be used tocouple framing pieces together, in embodiments.

FIG. 27 depicts the back corner piece and the front corner piece of FIG.26 in further detail.

FIG. 28 depicts the front corner piece of FIG. 26 in further detail.

FIG. 29 depicts an example furniture piece built out of embodiments ofthe present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 depicts an exploded view of an exemplary modular crown moldingsystem 100, in embodiments. FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary cross section200 of the modular crown molding system 100 of FIG. 1, showing thewireless controller, transformer, and lighting strip, in embodiments.FIG. 3 depicts another exemplary cross section 300 of the modular crownmolding system 100 of FIG. 1, showing the battery holder andlighting/wiring clips, in embodiments. FIG. 4 depicts another exemplarycross section 400 of the modular crown molding system 100 of FIG. 1,showing the amplifier and speaker, in embodiments. FIG. 5 depictsanother exemplary cross section 500 of the modular crown molding system100 of FIG. 1, showing a molding shaped panel in embodiments. FIG. 6depicts another exemplary cross section 600 of the modular crown moldingsystem 100 of FIG. 1, showing a rail panel with LED rail panel inserts,in embodiments. FIG. 7 depicts an exemplary speaker insert 700, inembodiments. FIGS. 1-7 are best viewed together with the followingdescription.

System 100 includes a top molding 102 and a bottom molding 104. Topmolding 102 and bottom molding 104 may be standard size moldings formedof standard materials, such as wood, metal, plaster, plastic,composites, resin etc. In embodiments, top molding 102 may have a topsurface 106 and a bottom surface 108 that are both substantially planar.In embodiments, bottom molding 104 may have an inner surface 110 and anouter surface 112 that are both substantially planar. It should beappreciated that outer surface 112 may have additional designs, such asthe molding shape shown in FIG. 1, or any other molding shape.

Top molding 102 may be coupled to bottom molding 104 via one or morestanchions 114. Stanchions 114 may be formed of standard materials suchas wood, plastic, plaster, metal, etc.

Stanchions 114 may be equally spaced, for example at 6 inch, 12 inch, or16 inch intervals in the longitudinal direction 115. Gap 116 betweenstanchions 114 may provide storage locations for components of system100 without being visible to the viewer. It should be appreciated thatthere may be any number of stanchions at any interval distance withoutdeparting from the scope hereof. Stanchions 114 may include asubstantially square edge that attaches to bottom surface 108 of topmolding 102, and an angled edge that attaches to inner surface 110 ofbottom molding 104. For example, referring to FIG. 2, stanchion 114includes square edge 202 that couples to bottom surface 108 and anglededge 204 that couples to inner surface 110. Also, as shown in FIG. 2,the stanchion 114 may be configured with a second square edge 206adjacent to the angled edge 204 such that gap 208 is created betweeninner surface 110 of bottom molding 104 and stanchion 114. Gap 208 maybe utilized to store components of system 100 without being visible tothe viewer. For clarity of illustration, edges 202, 204 and 206, as wellas gap 208 are not marked throughout the figures, but it should bereadily understood that these elements are present in at least FIGS.1-6.

One or more components may be stored within gaps 116 and 208 withinsystem 100 such that they are not visible to the viewer, or only aportion or emitted light therefrom is visible to the viewer. Forexample, as shown in FIG. 1, electronics including one or more of atransformer 118, battery 120, speaker 122, and associated wiring,lighting 124, wireless controller 126, motion sensor 128, and variousclips 130 for installing said electronics.

Transformer 118 may be coupled to power wiring within the house,building, or structure in which system 100 is installed. Alternatively,or in addition thereto, battery 120 may be implemented, for example incases where power wiring is not available. Power from transformer 118and/or battery 120 may be utilized to power one or more of speaker 122,lighting 124, wireless controller 126 and/or motion sensor 128.

Lighting 124 is shown in FIG. 2 attached within gap 208. Lighting may beLED strips capable of only a single wavelength light emission, orlighting may be LED strips capable of any wavelength light emissionwithout departing from the scope hereof. Speaker 122 is shown in FIG. 4located within gap 116 (not labeled in FIG. 4) between two stanchions114. Speaker 122, if necessary, may further have an amplifier 402located therewith. Speaker wire (not shown) may be wired within gap 208(or gap 116) along the crown molding system 100 from a sound source tospeaker 122. This provides the benefit that the speaker wire is notvisible in the room, thereby providing an appealing visual appearance.

Speaker 122 and/or lighting 124 may be controlled via wirelesscontroller 126. For example, wireless controller 126 may include awireless communication interface, such as WiFi, Bluetooth, Low-energyBluetooth, Cellular, etc. that is capable of interfacing with a remotedevice such as a smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, computer, laptop,smarthome hub, server, etc. As such, music may be streamed from theremote device to wireless controller 126 for playback on speaker 122. Inaddition, lighting 124, such as the color of the LED elements thereof,may be controlled by an application running on the remote device.Furthermore, the lighting 124 may be controlled to change to variousmusic or sounds being played on speaker 122.

In embodiments including motion sensor 128, the motion sensor 128 may beadapted to control electronics based on data sensed from the motionsensor. For example, lighting 124 may be controlled, for example via ahardwired signal or via a wireless signal received at the control deviceof lighting 124 from motion sensor 128. Therefore, if motion sensor 128detects motion, lighting 124 may be activated into an on mode. Or, ifmotion sensor 128 does not detect motion for a given time period,lighting 124 (and/or speaker 122) may be deactivated into an offconfiguration.

Speaker 122, lighting 124, wireless controller 126, motion sensor 128,amplifier 402, and any other electronics discussed herein may be poweredvia transformer 118 or battery 120. For example, FIG. 3 depicts battery120 located within gap 116 (not labeled in FIG. 3) between twostanchions 114. FIG. 3 also depicts lighting 124 held in place againstinner surface 110 of bottom molding 104 via clip 130. Clip 130 may fitwithin gap 208 and attach to inner surface 110 and/or square edge 206.

As labeled in FIGS. 1 and 2, a space 132 is formed between an upper edge134 of bottom molding 104 and the bottom surface 108 of top molding 102.Space 132 may be adjacent, but offset, from the gap 208. As such, itshould be appreciated that top molding 102 and bottom molding 104 formtop and bottom pieces of a frame for securing a panel, as discussedbelow. It may be desirous to fill space 132 such that stanchions 114 arenot visible when molding system 100 is installed. Space 132 may befilled with a variety of panels, as will be discussed below. The belowdiscussed panels may be sized and shaped to fill space 132 and attach tostanchions 114 via attachment locations 136 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2).Attachment locations 136 may be nail, screw, clips, hook-and-loopfastener, or other fastener locations such that the panels discussedbelow may be fixedly or removably coupled to stanchions 114 thereat. Oneor more of the panels discussed below may be coupled to stanchions 114at attachment locations 136 via a corresponding fastener 138, which maybe one or more of a nail, screw, clip, hook-and-loop fastener, or otherfastener that cooperates with attachment location 136.

FIG. 1 depicts a variety of panels that may be implemented with system100. For example, a planar panel 140 may be utilized. Planar panel 140may be entirely opaque, or, in embodiments, planar panel may be entirelytransparent or partially transparent. The transparent characteristic ofplanar panel 140 allows for light from lighting 124 to transmit therethrough for viewing by the viewer. Planar panel may be an acrylic, orother material such as resin, composite, plastic, glass, etc. and may beused in conjunction with other panels discussed below to diffuse lightfrom a lighting strip or otherwise provide a backing for the otherpanel.

A decorative panel 142 is also depicted in FIG. 1 (as well as FIGS.3-4). Decorative panel 142 may attach directly to stanchions 114, or itmay be attached such that planar panel 140 is located between thestanchions 114 and the decorative panel 142. Decorative panel 142 mayinclude a design, such as a mock wrought iron design, providing adecorative panel. It should be appreciated that any design, such aswording, logos, shapes, or any other design or combinations thereof maybe utilized without departing from the scope hereof. For example,decorative panel 142 may include entirely opaque portions (that may ormay not look like wrought iron) and apertures therein (or non-opaqueportions) such that light from lighting strip 124 may be visible to theviewer through the apertures in the design (and optionally throughplanar panel 140). Decorative panel 142 may be formed from metal,plastic, resin, composites, or other materials.

In embodiments, a third molding panel 144 may be attached to stanchions114. Third molding panel 144 may be of standard construction size, orany other size that fills space 132. In embodiments, third molding panel144 may be formed from wood, metal, plastic, resin, or any othermaterial. FIG. 5 depicts a cross section with third molding panel 144.

In embodiments, a rail panel 146 may be attached to stanchions 114. Railpanel 146 may be an embodiment of planar panel 140. As such, rail panel144 may be entirely opaque, or, in embodiments, planar panel may beentirely transparent or partially transparent. The transparentcharacteristic of rail panel 144 allows for light from lighting 124 totransmit there through for viewing by the viewer. Rail panel 144 mayinclude top and bottom rails that form a slot 148 for receiving one ormore rail panel inserts. The top and bottom rails may be resilient orotherwise apply pressure to the rail panel inserts to retain said railpanel inserts therein. Rail panel inserts may be, for example, LEDlighting such as rail panel LED inserts 150. Rail panel LED inserts 150may include a plurality of LED elements 152. Rail panel LED inserts 150may daisy chain, or couple to one another, via electrical connections154. Rail panel inserts 150 may be video board inserts such as an LCD orLED backlit panel insert capable of HD video production. In embodiments,a connection insert 156 may be utilized to connect, physically and/orelectronically, two or more rail panel LED inserts 150. In embodiments,fasteners 138 may be electrically connected, such as via attachmentlocations 136 and transformer 118 and/or battery 120 to provide power torail panel inserts 150. As such, an electrical contact may be on aninterior surface of the rail panel insert for coupling to an electricalpower source. Rail panel inserts may also be controlled via a remotedevice and/or wireless controller 126.

FIG. 7 depicts a speaker insert 700 that may be utilized with system100. Speaker insert 700 may be inserted adjacent a given top molding 102and bottom molding 104. As such, speaker insert 700 may include ahousing 702 that has a contour that generally matches the contour ofouter surface 112 of bottom molding 104. It should be appreciated thatthe contour of the housing 702 may be generally planar as well withoutdeparting from the scope hereof. Various electronics instead of, or inaddition to, speaker 704 may be housed within speaker insert 700 withoutdeparting from the scope hereof.

In embodiments, stanchions 114 are removably attached to top molding 102and bottom molding 104 such that a user may install top and bottommoldings easily for a given room of the structure. In other words, a“kit” may include one or more of the top and bottom moldings 102, 104,and a plurality of stanchions 114 (as well as other components of system100 discussed herein) to provide a modular molding system. Othercomponents of system 100 may be purchased separately, or be part of thekit, such that the molding system 100 can be customized with givenelectronics, panels, moldings, etc. for ease of inventory management tothe seller and ease of installation/customization for the purchaser.

System 100 provides many significant advantages. For example, the easeof installation, while allowing for customization, is significantlyincreased. In embodiments, to install system 100, a user may performsimple cuts on top molding 102 and bottom molding 104. In embodiments,top molding 102 is then attached to the ceiling of the structure,stanchions 114 are attached to the top molding (for example via nailsthrough top molding 102 and stanchions 114, or via adhesive). Then,bottom molding is attached to stanchions 114 (for example via nailsthrough top molding 102 and stanchions 114, or via adhesive) such thatthe molding is adjacent the wall and angled inner surface 110. Inembodiments, the stanchions 114 may be attached to the wall initially,and then the top and bottom moldings 102, 104 may be attached simplythereto via pre-drilled attachment holes that are covered by themoldings when attached. For example, the stanchion 114 may be attached,then top molding 102 may be secured thereto via a nail going through thestanchion 114 at a pre-drilled hole, and then into the top molding 102.These embodiments then provides a standardized spacing 132 between topand bottom moldings 102, 104. Moreover, as discussed above, theelectronics may be placed within the various gaps 208, 116 within thesystem 100 such that the user may customize the electronics associatedtherewith. Further yet, the user may customize the look of the space 132between the top and bottom moldings 102, 104, by inserting a removablepanel (such as one or more of planar panel 140, decorative panel 142,third molding panel 144, rail panel 146 and associated rail panelinserts, etc.). Moreover, any of these panels may be removed and changedthereby providing variable looks and feel without removing the base ofthe system (i.e. top molding 102, bottom molding 104, and stanchions114). Moreover, by making panels using wrought iron looking designsformed out of resin, for example, the user may add a high-end textureand appearance while being able to easily manipulate the panel. This issignificantly different than systems that utilize wood crown moldingsand therefore require de-installation of the molding to change the lookand feel thereof.

Crown molding, and floor molding, on bull-nose corners (i.e. roundedwall corners) is very difficult to install. FIG. 8 depicts a prior artsystem of installing floor molding on a rounded, bull-nose, and wallcorner. For a wall 802 having rounded corner 804, three pieces ofmolding must be installed to shape the molding around the corner. Forexample, first molding 806 is installed on the first planar wall of wall802 with a 22.5 degree edge cut (for a wall that is 90 degrees to theother wall with a rounded corner). Second molding 808 is installed onthe second planar wall of wall 802 with a 22.5 degree edge cut. Then athird molding piece 810 is installed abutting the first and secondmolding 806, 808, respectively. The third molding piece 810 has two edgecuts at 22.5 degrees, respectively, to abut the 22.5 degree edge cuts offirst and second molding 806, 808. This requires 4 total cuts at oddangles to create molding around a bullnose corner (if only a singlethird molding piece 810 is used). Similar cuts are made for crownmolding, although only floor molding is shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 9 depicts a bull-nose molding cover 900 that simplifiesinstallation of molding at a bull-nose cornered wall and beautifies thejunction at the floor molding, in embodiments. FIG. 10 depicts thebull-nose molding cover 900 of FIG. 9, installed at the floor molding.FIG. 11 depicts the bull-nose molding cover 900 spaced from a crownmolding. FIG. 12 depicts the bull-nose molding cover 900 installed atthe crown molding of FIG. 11. FIGS. 9-12 are best viewed together withthe following description.

To simplify installation of molding, such as floor molding 902 of FIGS.9-10, and crown molding 1102 of FIGS. 11-12, a bull-nose molding cover900 may be installed at the junction of two molding pieces. For example,FIG. 9 depicts first floor molding 902 adjacent to second floor molding904. This is a much simpler installation than that shown in FIG. 8because only two 45 degree cuts (i.e. one for each of first and secondfloor molding) need be made, as shown at junction 905. However, thisconfiguration, because of rounded corner 906, creates an unsightly gap908 between the two molding pieces and the corner. Bull-nose moldingcover 900 resolves this issue because the cover 900 covers the gap 908.For example, FIG. 10 shows cover 900 installed at the molding coveringgap 908.

FIG. 11 shows a similar situation at crown molding. For example, gap1108 is formed between the junction of first and second crown moldings1102, 1104, respectively, and rounded corner 1106. FIG. 12 shows gap1108 covered when cover 900 is installed at the gap 1108.

Cover 900 may include a decorated surface, such as the surface visiblein FIGS. 9-12. This decorated surface may have any design thereon, or itmay be substantially flat as well. The molding-side surface, i.e. thesurface abutting the molding pieces, may be substantially planar toallow cover 900 to abut the first and second molding pieces. Moreover,there may be a protrusion extending from the molding-side surface thatextends into gap (i.e. gap 908, 1108). Cover 900 may be nailed, orotherwise fastened, or adhered into place for final installation. Cover900 may further be used in conjunction with system 100. For example,cover 900 may cover a gap between two adjacent bottom molding pieces 104of system 100.

FIG. 13 depicts an exemplary modular construction system 1300, inembodiments. As discussed above, it may be desirable for a user tocreate his/her own furniture or construction systems having a unique orcustomized look and feel. System 1300 includes a modular frame 1302.Frame 1302 includes an upper frame piece 1304, bottom frame piece 1306,first side piece 1308, and second side piece 1310. Frame pieces1304-1310 may be cut down to any desired size from a single piece offrame material. Each side piece may be coupled to one or both of topframe piece 1304 and bottom frame piece 1306 via a corner piece 1312.Corner piece 1312 may couple with frame pieces via attachment locations1313, such as via nails, screws dovetail connections, snap-fitconnections, etc. Each frame piece may be formed from any material,including for example, wood, metal, plastic, resin, etc. Each framepiece 1304-1310 may include a U-channel for holding a panel as discussedbelow. Moreover, although shown substantially straight in FIG. 13, framepieces may be bent or curved without departing from the scope hereof.

The upper half of FIG. 13 depicts various panels that may be insertedwithin space 1314 formed between the pieces of frame 1302. For example,a cross-hatched panel 1316 may be utilized to form a see-through panel(or, in embodiments, a wine rack). A wood designed panel 1318 may beutilized to form a cabinet door. A wrought-iron-designed panel 1320 maybe utilized to create a see-through design having a wrought iron look,however may be formed from resin providing ease of cutting to the user.A planar panel 1322 may be utilized to provide an opaque, transparent,or semi-transparent visual appearance. The panels may be formed frommaterials including metal, wood, plastics, glass, resins, and othersynthetic materials.

System 1300 provides significant advantages to the user. For example,because the system 1300 is entirely modular, a user may buy frame 1302components and cut each frame piece 1304, 1306, 1308, 1310 to anydesired size. The small width/thickness of the frame piece also providesan advantage that most users have the hardware (i.e. saw, knife, etc.)required to cut the frame piece down to size. Moreover, in particularembodiments, panels are formed from a resin or composite that is easilycut to size, for example using a razor blade. This allows a user withlittle to no carpentry experience to build any furniture customized totheir design wishes.

In embodiments, system 1300 may additionally interact with one or moreelectronics components, such as those discussed above with respect tosystem 100. For example, a cabinet interior 1324 may be coupled withelectrical contacts 1326 powered by a transformer 1328. Transformer 1328may be similar to transformer 118 discussed above, or may alternativelybe a battery (i.e. similar to battery 120, above) without departing fromthe scope hereof. Electrical contacts 1326 may cooperate withcorresponding electrical contacts located within frame 1302. As such,electrical components may be added to frame 1302. For example, LEDlighting strips 1330 may be located within the U-channel of frame pieces1304-1310, or on the interior side thereof LED lighting strips 1330 maybe similar to lighting strips 124 discussed above. Moreover, one or moreelectrical panels 1332, such as LED panels, may be utilized instead ofpanels 1316-1322. Panels 1332 may be similar to panel inserts 150,discussed above, and include LED elements (e.g. LED elements 152),electrical connections (e.g. connections 154) and optional connectorinserts (e.g. inserts 156) without departing from the scope hereof. Ifnecessary, frame 1302 may include electrical contacts 1334 capable ofsupplying power to electrical panels 1332.

It should be appreciated that multiple frames 1302 may be joinedtogether to form a furniture piece. For example, four frames 1302 may bejoined together to form a furniture piece having four sides. Inembodiments, there may be a frame piece having two U-shaped channels atan angle to one another for forming given sides of the furniture.Moreover, corners, such as corner pieces 1312 may be capable of addingaccessories, such as handles, footings, etc.

FIG. 25 depicts an example corner connection system 2500 which may beused to couple framing pieces together, in embodiments. Cornerconnection system 2500 may be used as the corner piece 1312 of FIG. 13to couple frame pieces 1302 together.

The system 2500 includes an upper frame piece including a rear upperframe piece 2504R and a front upper frame piece 2504F. Front upper framepiece 2504F and the rear upper frame piece 2504R may collectively forman example of the upper frame piece 1304 of FIG. 13 and thereby form aU-Shaped channel when coupled together. The system 2500 includes a sideframe piece including a rear side frame piece 2508R and a front sideframe piece 2508F. Front side frame piece 2508F and the rear side framepiece 2508R may collectively form an example of the side frame piece1308 of FIG. 13 and thereby form a U-Shaped channel when coupledtogether. FIG. 25 only shows an upper left corner of the system 2500,but it should be appreciated that the system 2500 may include additionalpieces, such as a second side piece coupled with the upper piece, and arear side piece at opposite ends of the side pieces than the upperframe. The frame pieces, when coupled together, form the U-shapedchannel that a panel 2516 fits into. The panel 2516 may be a decorativepanel, including but not limited to any of the panels discussed herein.

The frame pieces may be joined together at the corner by a cornercoupling including a back corner piece 2520, a front corner piece 2522,and a decorative corner piece panel 2504. Each of the back corner piece2520, the front corner piece 2522, and the decorative corner piece panel2524 may couple together with one or more fasteners 2526. In the exampleshown in FIG. 25, the back corner piece 2520 and the front corner piece2522 include apertures 2528 that are aligned corresponding to thelocation of the fasteners 2526, and also with apertures 2530 within eachof the front upper frame piece 2504F, the rear upper frame piece 2504R,the rear side frame piece 2508R, and the front side frame piece 2508F.In embodiments, the apertures 2530 may be drilled after the frame piecesare cut to size, such as by a user who is assembling the frame.

The fasteners 2526 may extend through the apertures 2528, 2530 to thedecorative corner piece 2524, which may have corresponding fastenerattachments 2532. In embodiments, the fastener attachments 2532 arelocated on the front corner piece 2522, (or the back corner piece 2520),and the decorative corner piece 2524 snaps or glues to the front cornerpiece 2522.

FIG. 26 depicts an example frame connection system 2600 which may beused to couple framing pieces together, in embodiments. FIG. 27 depictsthe back corner piece 2620 and the front corner piece 2622 in furtherdetail. FIG. 28 depicts the front corner piece 2622 in further detail.FIGS. 26-28 are best viewed together with the following description.

Frame connection system 2600 illustrates a corner connection 2601 and aside (or top/bottom) frame connection 2603. Corner connection 2601 maybe used as the corner piece 1312 of FIG. 13 to couple frame pieces 1302together. The side frame connection 2603 may couple one or more piecesof frame piece 1304, 1306, 1308, 1310, of FIG. 13 together.

The corner connection 2601 couples together an upper frame pieceincluding a rear upper frame piece 2604R and a front upper frame piece2604F. Front upper frame piece 2604F and the rear upper frame piece2604R may collectively form an example of the upper frame piece 1304 ofFIG. 13 and thereby form a U-Shaped channel when coupled together. Theside (or top/bottom) frame connection 2603 couples together a side framepiece including a rear side frame piece 2608R and a front side framepiece 2608F. The front side frame piece 2608F and the rear side framepiece 2608R may collectively form an example of the side frame piece1308 of FIG. 13 and thereby form a U-Shaped channel when coupledtogether. FIG. 26 only shows an upper left corner of the system 2600,but it should be appreciated that the system 2500 may include additionalpieces, such as a second side piece coupled with the upper piece, and arear side piece at opposite ends of the side pieces than the upperframe.

The frame pieces, when coupled together, form the U-shaped channel thata panel 2616 fits into. The panel 2616 may be a decorative panel,including but not limited to any of the panels discussed herein. Thepanel 2616 may include one or more sub-panels, such as sub-panel 2616(1)and sub-panel 2616(2). Each sub-panel 2616 may couple together via snapfasteners 2617. The snap fasteners 2617 may be concealed when thesub-panels 2616 are coupled together, for example, via the decoration onthe sub-panels 2616. The snap fasteners 2617 shown in FIG. 26 include,for example, a protrusion extending from one surface of one sub-panel2616(1), and a corresponding recess that receives the protrusion in theother of the sub-panel 2616(2).

The corner connection 2601 includes a back corner piece 2620, and frontcorner piece 2622. The front corner piece 2622 may couple with, orinclude, a decorative panel as shown. The front corner piece 2622 maycouple with, or include, a decorative panel as shown. The back cornerpiece 2620 includes first tab 2702 and second tab 2704. The first tab2702 mates with a first notch 2630(1) and a second notch 2630(2) of therear upper frame 2604R and front upper frame 2604F, respectively (shownin FIG. 26). The second tab 2704 mates with a first notch 2632(1) and2632(2) of the rear side frame 2608R and front side frame 2608F,respectively (shown in FIG. 26).

The front corner piece 2622 includes first tab 2802 and second tab 2804.The first tab 2802 mates with the first notch 2630(1) and the secondnotch 2630(2) of the rear upper frame 2604R and front upper frame 2604F,respectively (shown in FIG. 26). The second tab 2804 mates with a firstnotch 2632(1) and 2632(2) of the rear side frame 2608R and front sideframe 2608F, respectively (shown in FIG. 26). The front corner piece2622 also includes attachment fastener 2806 that is complimentary to theattachment fastener 2706 of the back corner piece 2620, which may be inthe form of a snap lock that mates with a corresponding fastener 2806 ofthe front corner piece 2622.

The corner piece 2601 may further include a pressure pin 2636 that isactuated by a tool 2638. The pressure pin 2636 may enable quickdisconnect (i.e. uncoupling of the fastener 2706 with the fastener 2806)for disassembly of the framing.

The side (or top/bottom) connection 2603 includes a back side connectionpiece 2640, and front side connection piece 2642. The front side piece2642 may couple with, or include, a decorative panel 2644 as shown. Thefront side piece 2642 may couple with, or include, a decorative panel asshown. The back side piece 2640 includes first tab 2652 and second tab2654. The first tab 2702 mates with a first notch 2660(1) and a secondnotch 2660(2) of the rear side frame 2608R(1) and front side frame2608F(1), respectively (shown in FIG. 26). The second tab 2654 mateswith a first notch 2662(1) and 2662(2) of the rear side frame 2608R(2)and front side frame 2608F(2), respectively (shown in FIG. 26).

The front side connection piece 2642 includes corresponding first andsecond tabs as the rear side connection piece 2640, discussed above. Thefront side connection piece 2642 may snap fit to an attachment 2670 onthe rear side connection piece 2640. The attachment 2670 mayalternatively or additionally include a fastener 2675 for coupling thefront side connection piece 2642 to the rear side connection piece 2640.

FIG. 14, for example, depicts a trash bin 1400 formed by multiple frames1302 joined together. Frames may be connected together to make foursides, with optional footings attached at the corners thereof. It shouldbe appreciated that although shown with an opening in the top, anotherframe may be added with a hinged door such that the opening is closed.

Modular construction system 1300 may be utilized in a variety ofadditional construction elements. FIG. 15 depicts a modular door system1500 including modular construction system 1300 in use with a door 1502,in embodiments. To build modular door system 1500, door 1502 may be cut,or modified with a router, to make room for frame 1302. If necessary,the cutout (e.g. a routed out portion) may be fitted with a frameattachment piece for holding frame 1302 when inserted therein. A panel,such as panel 1320 shown, may be cut to size to fit into frame 1302.Frame 1302 and panel 1320 may then be inserted into the cutout door 1502to make a customized door. The shape and size of the framing used withdoor 1502 is shown for exemplary purposes only and additionalshapes/sizes may be used without departing from the scope hereof.

Modular door system 1500 has many significant advantages in thatstandard doors may be utilized to create customized doors. As such, adoor already pre-installed may be retrofitted with a new look based onthe design choice of the frame and panel insert. This reduces for theuser the necessity of buying and/or installing new hanging materialssuch as door hinges.

FIG. 16 depicts a modular window sconce system 1600 including modularconstruction system 1300 forming a window sconce for window 1602, inembodiments. Framing 1302 may be sized and shaped, and then insertedwith a panel, such as panel 1320 shown in FIG. 16, to form window sconcesystem 1600. It should be appreciated that additional framing 1302 maybe utilized to form side panels for the window sconce system 1600without departing from the scope hereof.

FIG. 17 depicts a modular entryway surround system 1700, includingmodular construction system 1300 forming a surround for entryway 1702,in embodiments. Entryway surround system 1700 includes three sections offraming 1302 formed together: two side framing sections 1302(1), 1302(2)coupled together with a middle framing section 1302(3). It should bereadily noticed that middle section 1302(3) has a different panel insertthan side sections 1302(1), 1302(2). This emphasizes the flexibility indesign and customization to the user, however, should the user sodesire, he/she may utilize the same panel inserts throughout eachframing section 1302.

FIG. 18 depicts a modular mantel system 1800, including modularconstruction system 1300 forming a mantel for a fireplace 1802, inembodiments. Mantel system 1800 includes three sections formed together:two side framing sections 1302(1), 1302(2), joined together by a middleframing section 1302(3). Two side framing sections 1302(1), 1302(2) mayinclude a front panel 1804 and a side panel 1806, respectively byforming sides using modular construction system 1300 as discussed above.

FIG. 19 depicts a modular stair rail system 1900, including modularconstruction system 1300 forming stair rail panels for stairs 1902, inembodiments. Modular construction system 1300 may couple between twobalusters 1904. Balusters 1904 may be newly added to stairs, or may bealready installed such that modular stair rail system 1900 is retrofitonto existing balusters. Side framing pieces 1308 and 1310 may attachdirectly to balusters. Modular stair rail system 1900 may furtherinclude baluster cover 1906, in the design of a newel, or other mainsupport for the rail. Moreover, modular stair rail system 1900 mayinclude one or more panel supports 1908 attached to bottom frame piece1306 of modular construction system 1300. Panel supports 1908 may besized and shaped to cover existing baluster cutoffs, or attachmentlocations, particularly when modular stair rail system 1900 isretrofitted over an existing stairs 1902 within a structure. Wheretypical stair rail systems have rail 1910 attached directly to thebalusters, the present modular stair rail system 1900 may include a railtrim component 1912 used to decorate and add customizable design to rail1910.

FIG. 20 depicts an exploded view of the modular construction system 1300in use with modular stair rail system 1900. As shown, side frame pieces1308, 1310 are each adapted to attach to one baluster 1904. Top andbottom frame members then surround panel 1320 (or any other paneldiscussed herein) to provide a customized look and feel to the stairrail system 1900.

FIG. 21 depicts an exploded view of the baluster cover 1906 withinmodular stair rail system 1900, in an embodiment. As shown, balustercover 1906 may have a first side 2102 and a second side 2104 thatcooperate together to surround baluster 1904 thereby covering theconnection location between the side frame piece 1310 (or 1308) and thebaluster 1904. In embodiments, there may be a baluster cover fill piece2106, 2108 that is used to fill a gap where the frame pieces do notconnect to the baluster 1904, such as at the end of the stair rail.Sides 2102, 2104 are shown in semicircular configuration for use along alength of the stair rail. However, the sides may have differentconfigurations, such as a 270 degree shape for use on a corner of thestair rail, etc.

FIG. 22 shows an exploded view of components of rail trim component1912, of FIG. 19, in embodiments. Rail trim component 1912 may include abottom trim frame 2202 having a plurality of spaced stanchions 2204 thatcouple to the stair rail 1910 (not shown in FIG. 22) via a top edge 2205thereof.

Stanchions 2204 may each include one or more holes 2206 therein allowingwiring and other electronics or objects to pass through stanchions. Forexample, lighting strips 2208, which may be similar to lighting strips124, discussed above, may pass through holes 2206. Moreover, atransformer 2210, which may be similar to transformer 118, oralternatively a battery such as battery 120, discussed above, may belocated in a space between two of the stanchions 2204.

Each side edge 2212 of the stanchions may couple with a panel 2214, suchas any of the panels discussed above to provide a customizabledecorative look instead of just a wood railing.

FIG. 23 depicts an additional modular construction system in the form ofa modular backsplash system 2300. System 2300 includes a bottom frame2302 and a top frame 2304 for supporting a panel 2306. Panel 2306 may besimilar to any of the above discussed panels thereby realizing theadvantages of ease of cutting/installation. Bottom frame 2302 mayinclude a plurality of attachment locations 2308, which may be spacedapart at one or both of top edge 2310 and bottom edge 2312 of bottomframe 2302. Each of attachment locations 2308 may include one or moreattachment mechanisms, such as a screw/nail hole 2314 for attaching theframe 2302 to the wall, and a snap fit mechanism for attaching panel2306 and top frame 2304 thereto. Bottom frame 2302 may further includeone or more support bars 2316 for supporting panel 2306 when attached tobottom frame 2302. Support bars 2316 may be spaced across bottom frame2302, or may be a single support bar across the entire length of thebottom frame 2302.

Support bars 2316 may additionally provide space between panel 2306 anda back surface 2318 of bottom frame 2302 for locating electronics suchas a lighting strip, battery, etc. Moreover, support bars 2316 may besized and shaped to hold a planar panel, similar to planar panel 140discussed above, that may diffuse light from the lighting strip, orotherwise provide a backing for the panel 2306.

FIG. 24 depicts an additional modular construction system in the form ofa modular electrical system 2400, in embodiments. System 2400 mayinclude an inner frame 2402 and an outer frame 2404. Inner frame 2402may be adapted for location within an outlet box installed in thestructure. Inner frame 2402 may couple with the electrical component2406, such as a light switch or an electrical outlet, and may include anaperture 2408 for use with wires supporting electrical component 2406.Inner frame 2402 may include one or more clips 2403 for securingelectronics, such as a lighting strip as discussed above. Outer frame2402 may attach to a front side of the electrical component 2406, suchas via the standard screw locations for attaching an electricalcomponent faceplate. Outer frame 2402 may include a lip 2410 havingslightly smaller dimensions than the dimensions of first panel 2412, andsecond panel 2414 (if included). Outer frame 2402 may also be anelectrical outlet outer frame 2420, as shown in FIG. 24 withoutdeparting from the scope hereof.

The systems discussed above provide many significant advantages,particularly to your average homeowner with little to no carpentryexperience, or carpentry materials. Users can purchase simplisticframes, manipulate them to the desired dimensions and build unique andcustomized systems. Moreover, inventory management on the seller side issimplified because the seller need not carry specifically sizeddimensions of the frames or panels because the user can easily cut to adesired size. In embodiments where the panels are composed of resin, areeasily cut to size and therefore the user need not have special hardwareto manipulate the panels. Moreover, one or more of the systems may,either individually or collectively, be sold as a “kit” such that theuser may purchase the kit and custom installation according to the sizeand parameters desired. Each component in the kit (such as each frame,or each molding, or each stanchion) may cooperate with one anotherproviding ease of installation.

FIG. 29 depicts an example furniture piece 2900 built out of embodimentsof the present disclosure. The example of FIG. 29 shows a sink shelf,but it should be appreciated that other types of furniture may be builtwithout departing from the scope hereof.

Furniture piece 2900 includes a first side 2902, a back 2904 and asecond side 2906. First side 2902 includes a top side frame piece 2908,bottom side frame piece 2910, a first side edge frame piece 2912, andsecond side edge frame piece 2614. Each of the frame pieces may includea channel that accommodates a panel 2916, such as any of the panelsdiscussed herein.

Second side 2906 includes a top side frame piece 2918, bottom side framepiece 2920, a first side edge frame piece 2922, and second side edgeframe piece 2624. Each of the frame pieces may include a channel thataccommodates a panel 2926, such as any of the panels discussed herein.

Each of the first side pieces 2912 and 2922 may include a second channelthat accommodates the back 2904, which may be a panel such as any of thepanels discussed herein.

The first side 2902 and the second side 2904 may support a shelf 2928.The shelf 2928 may include a notch 2930 configured to accommodate afaucet. Additional accessories, such as towel holder 2932 may beattached to the side pieces, or the shelf without departing from thescope hereof.

Changes may be made in the above methods and systems without departingfrom the scope hereof. It should thus be noted that the matter containedin the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should beinterpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The followingclaims are intended to cover all generic and specific features describedherein, as well as all statements of the scope of the present method andsystem, which, as a matter of language, might be said to falltherebetween.

What is claimed is:
 1. A modular crown molding system, comprising: a topmolding member; a bottom molding member; at least one stanchion spacingthe top molding member from the bottom molding member, the stanchionbeing removably attached to the top and bottom molding member.
 2. Themodular crown molding system of claim 1, the top molding member having asubstantially planar top surface and substantially planar bottomsurface, the top surface configured for attachment to a ceiling within aroom.
 3. The modular crown molding system of claim 1, the at least onestanchion having a first square edge configured for attachment to abottom surface of the top molding member, and an angled edge configuredfor attachment to an inner surface of the bottom molding member suchthat the bottom molding member is angled with respect to the top moldingmember when coupled to the stanchion.
 4. The modular crown moldingsystem of claim 3, the at least one stanchion including a second squareedge adjacent to the angled edge such that there is a gap between thebottom molding member and the at least one stanchion.
 5. The modularcrown molding system of claim 4, further comprising a lighting striporiented along the longitudinal direction within the gap.
 6. The modularcrown molding system of claim 1, the at least one stanchion being aplurality of stanchions equally spaced in a longitudinal direction alongthe top and bottom molding members forming a gap between two adjacentstanchions.
 7. The modular crown molding system of claim 6, furthercomprising one or more of: (i) a transformer adapted to couple to powerwiring of the structure the system is to be installed in, (ii) abattery, (iii) a speaker, (iv) a motion sensor, (v) lighting, (vi) awireless controller, and (vii) speaker wiring, located in the gap. 8.The modular crown molding system of claim 7, the wireless controlleradapted to receive input from a remote device for controlling one ormore of the lighting and the speaker.
 9. The modular crown moldingsystem of claim 7, the motion sensor adapted to control one or more ofthe speaker and the lighting based upon sensed data from the motionsensor.
 10. The modular crown molding system of claim 6, furthercomprising a panel located in a space between an upper surface of thebottom molding member and a bottom surface of the top molding member.11. The modular crown molding system of claim 10, the at least onestanchion including an attachment location for attaching the panelthereto.
 12. The modular crown molding system of claim 10, the panelbeing a planar panel.
 13. The modular crown molding system of claim 10,the panel being a decorative panel.
 14. The modular crown molding systemof claim 10, the panel being a rail panel; the system further comprisinga plurality of rail panel inserts that are capable of coupling togetheralong the length of the rail panel and securable by top and bottom railsof the rail panel.
 15. The modular crown molding system of claim 14, therail panel inserts being electronic display panels including connectioninserts for physically and/or electronically connecting multiple of therail panel inserts together.
 16. The modular crown molding system ofclaim 1, further including a bull-nose corner cover capable of coveringa gap between two adjacent bottom molding members and a rounded cornerof a wall to which the system is installed at.
 17. A modularconstruction system, comprising: a wooden frame including a top, bottom,and two side frame pieces coupled together via corner frame pieces, theframe pieces each including a U-channel aligned with the U-channel ofadjacent frame pieces; and, a resin panel inserted within the U-channelof the wooden frame.
 18. The modular construction system of claim 17, atleast one of the frame pieces including electrical contacts for couplingwith a separate electrical contact to power at least one electronicdevice located on an interior surface of the frame piece.
 19. Themodular construction system of claim 17, comprising three additionalwooden frames with three additional panels inserted respectively thereincoupled to the wooden frame thereby creating a box; and a lid attachedto the box; and leg pieces at an opposite side of the box from the lid.20. The modular construction system of claim 17, further including adoor surrounding the wooden frame such that the wooden frame is insetwithin a cutout portion of the door.